The National Forum for Black Public Administrators’ Student Research Poster Contest will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Baltimore, Maryland.
The University of Baltimore College of Public Affairs is proud to be hosting the 2024 FORUM poster contest. This competition recognizes research conducted by students at all undergraduate, masters, and doctorate levels. All students are encouraged to submit for this competition. In order to be eligible for the poster contest, all applicants must be currently enrolled in a traditional four-year college or university with at least one academic semester remaining after April 2024. All payments will be made to the university.
In less than 500 words, poster abstracts should summarize the following: 1) the research question/problem statement; 2) the theory and hypothesis; 3) the research methods; 4) the findings; and 5) the research implications. Submissions should be limited to research conducted during your time as a student. Research that incorporates the effort of a professor or a professional researcher (e.g., think tanks) is prohibited. You may only submit one poster abstract in which you are the lead/presenter. If your name will be affiliated with multiple abstract submissions, you can only select one project that you will serve as the lead presenter.
Topics:
- Artificial Intelligence and a New Public Administration: Promises and Challenges of AI-influenced Public Service
Following the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gone from a concept primarily discussed in technological fields to a tool readily available and widely used by the general public. What opportunities and challenges does AI bring to public service administration and the provision of services? How can public administrators effectively incorporate AI into their daily responsibilities? What ethical, safety, and privacy factors should guide this process? This poster should showcase policy implications, citizen engagement, equity considerations, and other important factors in navigating this critical and evolving technological advancement.
- Shaping Tomorrow: The Importance of Civic Education and Inclusive Education Rights
Civic Education is crucial for democratic society, ensuring people understand how the government functions and the important role each person plays. While this can occur in various settings, integration into formal education is vital for widespread knowledge. For African-Americans, civic education and engagement have been instrumental in obtaining rights denied throughout history. What are the consequences of limiting civic education, especially for African-Americans? How can we ensure an educated citizenry, and why should formal education play an active role in this effort? Additionally, can the increased recruitment of public administrators of color support civic education for African-Americans? This poster should explore historical perspectives, contemporary challenges and opportunities, and the empowerment and social justice possible through civic education.
- Navigating the New Normal: Post-Pandemic Insights for the Public Service Sector
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a “pandemic,” recognizing the significant health risk posed to populations worldwide. This official announcement led to rapid changes, requiring quick adaptation and innovation to continue providing services while prioritizing health and safety. As we navigate the post-pandemic era, what are some key lessons for the public service sector? How can public administrators ensure fair and accessible service delivery for all communities? What is the impact of remote and hybrid work on the public administration field? The poster should explore the changing nature of public service and suggest innovative solutions to enhance resilience and responsiveness.